Things Like This Don’t Happen Here
In Belladonna Estates—hailed as the safest neighborhood in the state—HOA manager Kevin Whitaker’s routine is shattered when a bloodied woman collapses into his home. Her plea is chilling: don't call the police, and don't help.
Though she insists she is fine, Kevin is haunted by the secrets hidden behind her frantic eyes. As unsettling clues emerge, his concern curdles into a dangerous obsession. He is convinced her rejection is a cry for help that only he can hear.
Kevin is determined to be her savior, whether she wants one or not.
- Kevin - Belladonna Estates HOA manager, 44
- Erica - Belladonna Estates resident
- Julian - Belladonna Estates resident
- Erica runs into Kevin’s office covered in blood saying a man is chasing her.
- Kevin drives Erica home at her request.
- The next day, Kevin sees Julian go to Erica’s house.
- Kevin watches them argue and then Julian leaves.
- Julian files a complaint about Kevin sitting in his car watching houses.
- The next day, Erica’s body is found in the neighborhood pond.
- Kevin takes security footage of Erica arguing with Julian outside before running into his office to the police.
- Police say no one saw Erica after Kevin reported her running into his office.
- Kevin is arrested for Erica’s murder.
- Kevin tells the reader he didn’t kill Erica, but before working at Belladonna Estates, he stalked and killed women and kept trophies.
Things Like This Don't Happen Here delivers an intriguing premise that hooks you immediately. For a short story, the character development is good, though I found it hard to root for Kevin - he gave off a creepy vibe right from the start.
The highlights of the narrative are undoubtedly the sharp twist and the concluding sequence. The ending is both satisfying and a perfect setup for the next installment in the series. While a few plot points remain slightly murky, the author notes that the answers will be coming in book two.
Overall, it is an enjoyable, fast-paced read that makes you want to learn more about Belladonna Estates and its residents.
This book is not available for purchase and can only be obtained by signing up for the author's email newsletter. Visit subscribepage.io/things-like-this-dont-happen-here to subscribe and get your free copy.
- Blood
- Stalking
- Murder
Publisher: Independently Published: This book is not available for purchase and can only be obtained by signing up for the author's email newsletter. Visit subscribepage.io/things-like-this-dont-happen-here to subscribe and get your free copy.
Publication Date: April 1, 2026
Note: Details are for the original edition. Other formats, editions, and audiobook versions may be available.
